About us
Circling is a group meditation where instead of focusing on the breath, the focus is on one individuals lived experience. The rest of the circle listens and tries to relate to their lived experience through their own lived experience. It is about fostering deep connections and presence in the moment. It is often described as “the art of being with what is”.
If that sounds a little too “woo woo” for you. It also fosters communication and connection skills. Helps develop active/empathetic listening skills. Helps you notice more subtle non verbal cues and read situations more accurately.
Circling is absolutely NOT therapy, but many people find it therapeutic.
The general formate to expect at meetups:
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Introductions and check-ins
What are you bringing with you today? How are you feeling? Hows your day been? 3-5 sentences per person. -
Review and agree to “The 3 agreements” ~ 10 mins
- Personal confidentiality
- Communicate with the intent to relate
- Listen for the deepest cut of the others humanity
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Warm up game ~ 10 mins
Usually done in pairs, helps focus in and develop specific skills through a simple exercise. 5-10 mins -
Circling intro and grounding ~ 10 mins
What is circling? What is the intent? How do we do it? -
Circle someone ~45 mins
Core of the practice where the one being circled shares what it is like to be them in this particular moment in time. Everyone else reflects on how this affects them in the present moment and tries to really understand and draw out what it is like to be the person being circled. -
Integration and feedback ~ 20 mins
Step out of the practice and give some feedback on what it was like have gone through the practice. What stood out for you? How would summarize the experience?
Having written all this out it can look a bit intimidating but it is essential just a way to have deep, connective conversations with people, in the present moment.
I don’t know of anyone who has had the courage to give it a try who regretted trying it.
No experience or expertise needed. Just bring your presence and curiosity.
Full disclosure, I have not completed any of the circling facilitator courses but have been practicing this on and off for several years.
If you crave deeper conversations, more community, more presence in the moment, come out and give it a try.
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